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Mayor, council debate proposed guidelines to limit public-comment time
Summary
Village Administrator Jung-Han Chen read a proposal to limit resident speaking time at council meetings; Mayor Valerie Mockus and several councilmembers discussed balancing open access with agenda efficiency and asked staff to draft guidelines for future action.
Village Administrator Jung-Han Chen introduced proposed public-comment guidelines during the Aug. 21 committees meeting after reading pending legislation, prompting a discussion among members about whether to limit the amount of time residents may speak at council meetings. Mayor Valerie Mockus said she had received legal counsel recommending time limits when large numbers attend but said the administration should also seek resident feedback earlier via social media and other outlets so concerns can shape staff recommendations before meetings.
Several councilmembers pushed back on rigid caps. Councilmember Annelle Porter cautioned that some residents need time to formulate remarks and that strict time limits may create undue pressure. Mayor Mockus said Council would retain the option to modify any rule in the moment and encouraged members to submit recommendations so a draft could be prepared for a future meeting.
